I plan on turning bowls, mostly, so a Mini lathe is probably too small for
me. The reason I asked about the Harbor Freight lathe was that it is full
size, low priced, and I had heard of several turners who bought it and were
very happy with it. This wasn't true of the other lathes they sell at
Harbor Freight--just this one, their 34706, which is a knock off of the Jet
1236 lathe. Although I am aware that Harbor Freight sells some really cheap
tools and that some are lousy I heard that this particular lathe was pretty
good. I was hoping to hear from anyone who actually has one or has used one
to see if there was any compelling reason not get one as a starter lathe.

Thanks,

Chuck


"cm" wrote in message
...
Chuck,

The Jet mini is a great lathe. You would be very pleased with the fit and
finish. Everything works smoothly. I don't get this feeling from the
Central Mach. lathes. I think you would be happy with a better quality
lathe like the Jet with good resale value if you ever want to move up.
The chuck it comes with from Woodcraft is a very nice little chuck. The
combination makes it a great value.

Have fun,

AZCRAIG

www.vintagetrailersforsale.com


"caaron" wrote in message
...
I'm getting ready to purchase my first wood lathe, and I wanted to see if
anyone had any experience with or opinions about the Central Machinery
wood lathe from Harbor Freight. From what I've read, this is a Chinese
copy of the Jet 1236:

12'' x 33-3/8'' WOOD LATHE WITH REVERSIBLE HEAD Pivoting headstock for
extra-large bowl turning capacity. Headstock rotates and locks in
position at 45°, 90°, 135°, and 180°. Includes stand, tool rest, drive
center, 6'' disc, and Allen wrenches.
a.. Swing over bed: 12''
b.. Motor: 3/4 HP, 120V, 60 Hz
c.. Speeds: 600, 750, 910, 1080, 1260, 1460, 1680, 1910, 2150, and 2400
RPM
d.. Turning distance between centers: 33-3/8"
e.. CSA listed
Shipping weight: 184 lbs.


Any information or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

Chuck